# Maccabees 2

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> The Second Book of the Maccabees
> 
> 2Mac 1
> The brethren, the Jews that be at Jerusalem and in the land
> of Judea, wish unto the brethren, the Jews that are throughout
> Egypt health and peace:
> 
> 2
> God be gracious unto you, and remember his covenant that he
> made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, his faithful servants;
> 
> 3
> And give you all an heart to serve him, and to do his will,
> with a good courage and a willing mind;
> 
> 4
> And open your hearts in his law and commandments, and send
> you peace,
> 
> 5
> And hear your prayers, and be at one with you, and never
> forsake you in time of trouble.
> 
> 6
> And now we be here praying for you.
> 
> 7
> What time as Demetrius reigned, in the hundred threescore and
> ninth year, we the Jews wrote unto you in the extremity of
> trouble that came upon us in those years, from the time that
> Jason and his company revolted from the holy land and kingdom,
> 
> 8
> And burned the porch, and shed innocent blood: then we prayed
> unto the Lord, and were heard; we offered also sacrifices and
> fine flour, and lighted the lamps, and set forth the loaves.
> 
> 9
> And now see that ye keep the feast of tabernacles in the
> month Casleu.
> 
> 10
> In the hundred fourscore and eighth year, the people that
> were at Jerusalem and in Judea, and the council, and Judas, sent
> greeting and health unto Aristobulus, king Ptolemeus' master,
> who was of the stock of the anointed priests, and to the Jews
> that were in Egypt:
> 
> 11
> Insomuch as God hath delivered us from great perils, we thank
> him highly, as having been in battle against a king.
> 
> 12
> For he cast them out that fought within the holy city.
> 
> 13
> For when the leader was come into Persia, and the army with
> him that seemed invincible, they were slain in the temple of
> Nanea by the deceit of Nanea's priests.
> 
> 14
> For Antiochus, as though he would marry her, came into the
> place, and his friends that were with him, to receive money in
> name of a dowry.
> 
> 15
> Which when the priests of Nanea had set forth, and he was
> entered with a small company into the compass of the temple,
> they shut the temple as soon as Antiochus was come in:
> 
> 16
> And opening a privy door of the roof, they threw stones like
> thunderbolts, and struck down the captain, hewed them in pieces,
> smote off their heads and cast them to those that were without.
> 
> 17
> Blessed be our God in all things, who hath delivered up the
> ungodly.
> 
> 18
> Therefore whereas we are now purposed to keep the
> purification of the temple upon the five and twentieth day of
> the month Casleu, we thought it necessary to certify you
> thereof, that ye also might keep it, as the feast of the
> tabernacles, and of the fire, which was given us when Neemias
> offered sacrifice, after that he had builded the temple and the
> altar.
> 
> 19
> For when our fathers were led into Persia, the priests that
> were then devout took the fire of the altar privily, and hid it
> in an hollow place of a pit without water, where they kept it
> sure, so that the place was unknown to all men.
> 
> 20
> Now after many years, when it pleased God, Neemias, being
> sent from the king of Persia, did send of the posterity of those
> priests that had hid it to the fire: but when they told us they
> found no fire, but thick water;
> 
> 21
> Then commanded he them to draw it up, and to bring it; and
> when the sacrifices were laid on, Neemias commanded the priests
> to sprinkle the wood and the things laid thereupon with the
> water.
> 
> 22
> When this was done, and the time came that the sun shone,
> which afore was hid in the cloud, there was a great fire
> kindled, so that every man marvelled.
> 
> 23
> And the priests made a prayer whilst the sacrifice was
> consuming, I say, both the priests, and all the rest, Jonathan
> beginning, and the rest answering thereunto, as Neemias did.
> 
> 24
> And the prayer was after this manner; O Lord, Lord God,
> Creator of all things, who art fearful and strong, and
> righteous, and merciful, and the only and gracious King,
> 
> 25
> The only giver of all things, the only just, almighty, and
> everlasting, thou that deliverest Israel from all trouble, and
> didst choose the fathers, and sanctify them:
> 
> 26
> Receive the sacrifice for thy whole people Israel, and
> preserve thine own portion, and sanctify it.
> 
> 27
> Gather those together that are scattered from us, deliver
> them that serve among the heathen, look upon them that are
> despised and abhorred, and let the heathen know that thou art
> our God.
> 
> 28
> Punish them that oppress us, and with pride do us wrong.
> 
> 29
> Plant thy people again in thy holy place, as Moses hath
> spoken.
> 
> 30
> And the priests sung psalms of thanksgiving.
> 
> 31
> Now when the sacrifice was consumed, Neemias commanded the
> water that was left to be poured on the great stones.
> 
> 32
> When this was done, there was kindled a flame: but it was
> consumed by the light that shined from the altar.
> 
> 33
> So when this matter was known, it was told the king of
> Persia, that in the place, where the priests that were led away
> had hid the fire, there appeared water, and that Neemias had
> purified the sacrifices therewith.
> 
> 34
> Then the king, inclosing the place, made it holy, after he
> had tried the matter.
> 
> 35
> And the king took many gifts, and bestowed thereof on those
> whom he would gratify.
> 
> 36
> And Neemias called this thing Naphthar, which is as much as
> to say, a cleansing: but many men call it Nephi.
> 
> 2Mac 2
> It is also found in the records, that Jeremy the prophet
> commanded them that were carried away to take of the fire, as it
> hath been signified:
> 
> 2
> And how that the prophet, having given them the law, charged
> them not to forget the commandments of the Lord, and that they
> should not err in their minds, when they see images of silver
> and gold, with their ornaments.
> 
> 3
> And with other such speeches exhorted he them, that the law
> should not depart from their hearts.
> 
> 4
> It was also contained in the same writing, that the prophet,
> being warned of God, commanded the tabernacle and the ark to go
> with him, as he went forth into the mountain, where Moses
> climbed up, and saw the heritage of God.
> 
> 5
> And when Jeremy came thither, he found an hollow cave,
> wherein he laid the tabernacle, and the ark, and the altar of
> incense, and so stopped the door.
> 
> 6
> And some of those that followed him came to mark the way, but
> they could not find it.
> 
> 7
> Which when Jeremy perceived, he blamed them, saying, As for
> that place, it shall be unknown until the time that God gather
> his people again together, and receive them unto mercy.
> 
> 8
> Then shall the Lord shew them these things, and the glory of
> the Lord shall appear, and the cloud also, as it was shewed
> under Moses, and as when Solomon desired that the place might be
> honourably sanctified.
> 
> 9
> It was also declared, that he being wise offered the
> sacrifice of dedication, and of the finishing of the temple.
> 
> 10
> And as when Moses prayed unto the Lord, the fire came down
> from heaven, and consumed the sacrifices: even so prayed Solomon
> also, and the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt
> offerings.
> 
> 11
> And Moses said, Because the sin offering was not to be eaten,
> it was consumed.
> 
> 12
> So Solomon kept those eight days.
> 
> 13
> The same things also were reported in the writings and
> commentaries of Neemias; and how he founding a library gathered
> together the acts of the kings, and the prophets, and of David,
> and the epistles of the kings concerning the holy gifts.
> 
> 14
> In like manner also Judas gathered together all those things
> that were lost by reason of the war we had, and they remain with
> us,
> 
> 15
> Wherefore if ye have need thereof, send some to fetch them
> unto you.
> 
> 16
> Whereas we then are about to celebrate the purification, we
> have written unto you, and ye shall do well, if ye keep the same
> days.
> 
> 17
> We hope also, that the God, that delivered all his people,
> and gave them all an heritage, and the kingdom, and the
> priesthood, and the sanctuary,
> 
> 18
> As he promised in the law, will shortly have mercy upon us,
> and gather us together out of every land under heaven into the
> holy place: for he hath delivered us out of great troubles, and
> hath purified the place.
> 
> 19
> Now as concerning Judas Maccabeus, and his brethren, and the
> purification of the great temple, and the dedication of the
> altar,
> 
> 20
> And the wars against Antiochus Epiphanes, and Eupator his
> son,
> 
> 21
> And the manifest signs that came from heaven unto those that
> behaved themselves manfully to their honour for Judaism: so
> that, being but a few, they overcame the whole country, and
> chased barbarous multitudes,
> 
> 22
> And recovered again the temple renowned all the world over,
> and freed the city, and upheld the laws which were going down,
> the Lord being gracious unto them with all favour:
> 
> 23
> All these things, I say, being declared by Jason of Cyrene in
> five books, we will assay to abridge in one volume.
> 
> 24
> For considering the infinite number, and the difficulty which
> they find that desire to look into the narrations of the story,
> for the variety of the matter,
> 
> 25
> We have been careful, that they that will read may have
> delight, and that they that are desirous to commit to memory
> might have ease, and that all into whose hands it comes might
> have profit.
> 
> 26
> Therefore to us, that have taken upon us this painful labour
> of abridging, it was not easy, but a matter of sweat and
> watching;
> 
> 27
> Even as it is no ease unto him that prepareth a banquet, and
> seeketh the benefit of others: yet for the pleasuring of many we
> will undertake gladly this great pains;
> 
> 28
> Leaving to the author the exact handling of every particular,
> and labouring to follow the rules of an abridgement.
> 
> 29
> For as the master builder of a new house must care for the
> whole building; but he that undertaketh to set it out, and paint
> it, must seek out fit things for the adorning thereof: even so I
> think it is with us.
> 
> 30
> To stand upon every point, and go over things at large, and
> to be curious in particulars, belongeth to the first author of
> the story:
> 
> 31
> But to use brevity, and avoid much labouring of the work, is
> to be granted to him that will make an abridgment.
> 
> 32
> Here then will we begin the story: only adding thus much to
> that which hath been said, that it is a foolish thing to make a
> long prologue, and to be short in the story itself.
> 
> 2Mac 3
> Now when the holy city was inhabited with all peace, and the
> laws were kept very well, because of the godliness of Onias the
> high priest, and his hatred of wickedness,
> 
> 2
> It came to pass that even the kings themselves did honour the
> place, and magnify the temple with their best gifts;
> 
> 3
> Insomuch that Seleucus of Asia of his own revenues bare all
> the costs belonging to the service of the sacrifices.
> 
> 4
> But one Simon of the tribe of Benjamin, who was made governor
> of the temple, fell out with the high priest about disorder in
> the city.
> 
> 5
> And when he could not overcome Onias, he gat him to
> Apollonius the son of Thraseas, who then was governor of
> Celosyria and Phenice,
> 
> 6
> And told him that the treasury in Jerusalem was full of
> infinite sums of money, so that the multitude of their riches,
> which did not pertain to the account of the sacrifices, was
> innumerable, and that it was possible to bring all into the
> king's hand.
> 
> 7
> Now when Apollonius came to the king, and had shewed him of
> the money whereof he was told, the king chose out Heliodorus his
> treasurer, and sent him with a commandment to bring him the
> foresaid money.
> 
> 8
> So forthwith Heliodorus took his journey; under a colour of
> visiting the cities of Celosyria and Phenice, but indeed to
> fulfil the king's purpose.
> 
> 9
> And when he was come to Jerusalem, and had been courteously
> received of the high priest of the city, he told him what
> intelligence was given of the money, and declared wherefore he
> came, and asked if these things were so indeed.
> 
> 10
> Then the high priest told him that there was such money laid
> up for the relief of widows and fatherless children:
> 
> 11
> And that some of it belonged to Hircanus son of Tobias, a man
> of great dignity, and not as that wicked Simon had misinformed:
> the sum whereof in all was four hundred talents of silver, and
> two hundred of gold:
> 
> 12
> And that it was altogether impossible that such wrongs should
> be done unto them, that had committed it to the holiness of the
> place, and to the majesty and inviolable sanctity of the temple,
> honoured over all the world.
> 
> 13
> But Heliodorus, because of the king's commandment given him,
> said, That in any wise it must be brought into the king's
> treasury.
> 
> 14
> So at the day which he appointed he entered in to order this
> matter: wherefore there was no small agony throughout the whole
> city.
> 
> 15
> But the priests, prostrating themselves before the altar in
> their priests' vestments, called unto heaven upon him that made
> a law concerning things given to he kept, that they should
> safely be preserved for such as had committed them to be kept.
> 
> 16
> Then whoso had looked the high priest in the face, it would
> have wounded his heart: for his countenance and the changing of
> his colour declared the inward agony of his mind.
> 
> 17
> For the man was so compassed with fear and horror of the
> body, that it was manifest to them that looked upon him, what
> sorrow he had now in his heart.
> 
> 18
> Others ran flocking out of their houses to the general
> supplication, because the place was like to come into contempt.
> 
> 19
> And the women, girt with sackcloth under their breasts,
> abounded in the streets, and the virgins that were kept in ran,
> some to the gates, and some to the walls, and others looked out
> of the windows.
> 
> 20
> And all, holding their hands toward heaven, made
> supplication.
> 
> 21
> Then it would have pitied a man to see the falling down of
> the multitude of all sorts, and the fear of the high priest
> being in such an agony.
> 
> 22
> They then called upon the Almighty Lord to keep the things
> committed of trust safe and sure for those that had committed
> them.
> 
> 23
> Nevertheless Heliodorus executed that which was decreed.
> 
> 24
> Now as he was there present himself with his guard about the
> treasury, the Lord of spirits, and the Prince of all power,
> caused a great apparition, so that all that presumed to come in
> with him were astonished at the power of God, and fainted, and
> were sore afraid.
> 
> 25
> For there appeared unto them an horse with a terrible rider
> upon him, and adorned with a very fair covering, and he ran
> fiercely, and smote at Heliodorus with his forefeet, and it
> seemed that he that sat upon the horse had complete harness of
> gold.
> 
> 26
> Moreover two other young men appeared before him, notable in
> strength, excellent in beauty, and comely in apparel, who stood
> by him on either side; and scourged him continually, and gave
> him many sore stripes.
> 
> 27
> And Heliodorus fell suddenly unto the ground, and was
> compassed with great darkness: but they that were with him
> took him up, and put him into a litter.
> 
> 28
> Thus him, that lately came with a great train and with all
> his guard into the said treasury, they carried out, being unable
> to help himself with his weapons: and manifestly they
> acknowledged the power of God.
> 
> 29
> For he by the hand of God was cast down, and lay speechless
> without all hope of life.
> 
> 30
> But they praised the Lord, that had miraculously honoured his
> own place: for the temple; which a little afore was full of fear
> and trouble, when the Almighty Lord appeared, was filled with
> joy and gladness.
> 
> 31
> Then straightways certain of Heliodorus' friends prayed
> Onias, that he would call upon the most High to grant him his
> life, who lay ready to give up the ghost.
> 
> 32
> So the high priest, suspecting lest the king should
> misconceive that some treachery had been done to Heliodorus by
> the Jews, offered a sacrifice for the health of the man.
> 
> 33
> Now as the high priest was making an atonement, the same
> young men in the same clothing appeared and stood beside
> Heliodorus, saying, Give Onias the high priest great thanks,
> insomuch as for his sake the Lord hath granted thee life:
> 
> 34
> And seeing that thou hast been scourged from heaven, declare
> unto all men the mighty power of God. And when they had spoken
> these words, they appeared no more.
> 
> 35
> So Heliodorus, after he had offered sacrifice unto the Lord,
> and made great vows unto him that had saved his life, and
> saluted Onias, returned with his host to the king.
> 
> 36
> Then testified he to all men the works of the great God,
> which he had seen with his eyes.
> 
> 37
> And when the king Heliodorus, who might be a fit man to be
> sent yet once again to Jerusalem, he said,
> 
> 38
> If thou hast any enemy or traitor, send him thither, and thou
> shalt receive him well scourged, if he escape with his life: for
> in that place, no doubt; there is an especial power of God.
> 
> 39
> For he that dwelleth in heaven hath his eye on that place,
> and defendeth it; and he beateth and destroyeth them that come
> to hurt it.
> 
> 40
> And the things concerning Heliodorus, and the keeping of the
> treasury, fell out on this sort.
> 
> 2Mac 4
> This Simon now, of whom we spake afore, having been a
> betrayer of the money, and of his country, slandered Onias, as
> if he ha terrified Heliodorus, and been the worker of these
> evils.
> 
> 2
> Thus was he bold to call him a traitor, that had deserved
> well of the city, and tendered his own nation, and was so
> zealous of the laws.
> 
> 3
> But when their hatred went so far, that by one of Simon's
> faction murders were committed,
> 
> 4
> Onias seeing the danger of this contention, and that
> Apollonius, as being the governor of Celosyria and Phenice, did
> rage, and increase Simon's malice,
> 
> 5
> He went to the king, not to be an accuser of his countrymen,
> but seeking the good of all, both publick and private:
> 
> 6
> For he saw that it was impossible that the state should
> continue quiet, and Simon leave his folly, unless the king did
> look thereunto.
> 
> 7
> But after the death of Seleucus, when Antiochus, called
> Epiphanes, took the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias laboured
> underhand to be high priest,
> 
> 8
> Promising unto the king by intercession three hundred and
> threescore talents of silver, and of another revenue eighty
> talents:
> 
> 9
> Beside this, he promised to assign an hundred and fifty more,
> if he might have licence to set him up a place for exercise, and
> for the training up of youth in the fashions of the heathen, and
> to write them of Jerusalem by the name of Antiochians.
> 
> 10
> Which when the king had granted, and he had gotten into his
> hand the rule he forthwith brought his own nation to Greekish
> fashion.
> 
> 11
> And the royal privileges granted of special favour to the
> Jews by the means of John the father of Eupolemus, who went
> ambassador to Rome for amity and aid, he took away; and putting
> down the governments which were according to the law, he brought
> up new customs against the law:
> 
> 12
> For he built gladly a place of exercise under the tower
> itself, and brought the chief young men under his subjection,
> and made them wear a hat.
> 
> 13
> Now such was the height of Greek fashions, and increase of
> heathenish manners, through the exceeding profaneness of Jason,
> that ungodly wretch, and no high priest;
> 
> 14
> That the priests had no courage to serve any more at the
> altar, but despising the temple, and neglecting the sacrifices,
> hastened to be partakers of the unlawful allowance in the place
> of exercise, after the game of Discus called them forth;
> 
> 15
> Not setting by the honours of their fathers, but liking the
> glory of the Grecians best of all.
> 
> 16
> By reason whereof sore calamity came upon them: for they had
> them to be their enemies and avengers, whose custom they
> followed so earnestly, and unto whom they desired to be like in
> all things.
> 
> 17
> For it is not a light thing to do wickedly against the laws
> of God: but the time following shall declare these things.
> 
> 18
> Now when the game that was used every faith year was kept at
> Tyrus, the king being present,
> 
> 19
> This ungracious Jason sent special messengers from Jerusalem,
> who were Antiochians, to carry three hundred drachms of silver
> to the sacrifice of Hercules, which even the bearers thereof
> thought fit not to bestow upon the sacrifice, because it was not
> convenient, but to be reserved for other charges.
> 
> 20
> This money then, in regard of the sender, was appointed to
> Hercules' sacrifice; but because of the bearers thereof, it was
> employed to the making of gallies.
> 
> 21
> Now when Apollonius the son of Menestheus was sent into Egypt
> for the coronation of king Ptolemeus Philometor, Antiochus,
> understanding him not to be well affected to his affairs,
> provided for his own safety: whereupon he came to Joppa, and
> from thence to Jerusalem:
> 
> 22
> Where he was honourably received of Jason, and of the city,
> and was brought in with torch alight, and with great shoutings:
> and so afterward went with his host unto Phenice.
> 
> 23
> Three years afterward Jason sent Menelaus, the aforesaid
> Simon's brother, to bear the money unto the king, and to put him
> in mind of certain necessary matters.
> 
> 24
> But he being brought to the presence of the king, when he had
> magnified him for the glorious appearance of his power, got the
> priesthood to himself, offering more than Jason by three hundred
> talents of silver.
> 
> 25
> So he came with the king's mandate, bringing nothing worthy
> the high priesthood, but having the fury of a cruel tyrant, and
> the rage of a savage beast.
> 
> 26
> Then Jason, who had undermined his own brother, being
> undermined by another, was compelled to flee into the country of
> the Ammonites.
> 
> 27
> So Menelaus got the principality: but as for the money that
> he had promised unto the king, he took no good order for it,
> albeit Sostratis the ruler of the castle required it:
> 
> 28
> For unto him appertained the gathering of the customs.
> Wherefore they were both called before the king.
> 
> 29
> Now Menelaus left his brother Lysimachus in his stead in the
> priesthood; and Sostratus left Crates, who was governor of the
> Cyprians.
> 
> 30
> While those things were in doing, they of Tarsus and Mallos
> made insurrection, because they were given to the king's
> concubine, called Antiochus.
> 
> 31
> Then came the king in all haste to appease matters, leaving
> Andronicus, a man in authority, for his deputy.
> 
> 32
> Now Menelaus, supposing that he had gotten a convenient time,
> stole certain vessels of gold out of the temple, and gave some
> of them to Andronicus, and some he sold into Tyrus and the
> cities round about.
> 
> 33
> Which when Onias knew of a surety, he reproved him, and
> withdrew himself into a sanctuary at Daphne, that lieth by
> Antiochia.
> 
> 34
> Wherefore Menelaus, taking Andronicus apart, prayed, him to
> get Onias into his hands; who being persuaded thereunto, and
> coming to Onias in deceit, gave him his right hand with oaths;
> and though he were suspected by him, yet persuaded he him to
> come forth of the sanctuary: whom forthwith he shut up without
> regard of justice.
> 
> 35
> For the which cause not only the Jews, but many also of other
> nations, took great indignation, and were much grieved for the
> unjust murder of the man.
> 
> 36
> And when the king was come again from the places about
> Cilicia, the Jews that were in the city, and certain of the
> Greeks that abhorred the fact also, complained because Onias was
> slain without cause.
> 
> 37
> Therefore Antiochus was heartily sorry, and moved to pity,
> and wept, because of the sober and modest behaviour of him that
> was dead.
> 
> 38
> And being kindled with anger, forthwith he took away
> Andronicus his purple, and rent off his clothes, and leading him
> through the whole city unto that very place, where he had
> committed impiety against Onias, there slew he the cursed
> murderer. Thus the Lord rewarded him his punishment, as he had
> deserved.
> 
> 39
> Now when many sacrileges had been committed in the city by
> Lysimachus with the consent of Menelaus, and the fruit thereof
> was spread abroad, the multitude gathered themselves together
> against Lysimachus, many vessels of gold being already carried
> away.
> 
> 40
> Whereupon the common people rising, and being filled with
> rage, Lysimachus armed about three thousand men, and began first
> to offer violence; one Auranus being the leader, a man far gone
> in years, and no less in folly.
> 
> 41
> They then seeing the attempt of Lysimachus, some of them
> caught stones, some clubs, others taking handfuls of dust, that
> was next at hand, cast them all together upon Lysimachus, and
> those that set upon them.
> 
> 42
> Thus many of them they wounded, and some they struck to the
> ground, and all of them they forced to flee: but as for the
> churchrobber himself, him they killed beside the treasury.
> 
> 43
> Of these matters therefore there was an accusation laid
> against Menelaus.
> 
> 44
> Now when the king came to Tyrus, three men that were sent
> from the senate pleaded the cause before him:
> 
> 45
> But Menelaus, being now convicted, promised Ptolemee the son
> of Dorymenes to give him much money, if he would pacify the king
> toward him.
> 
> 46
> Whereupon Ptolemee taking the king aside into a certain
> gallery, as it were to take the air, brought him to be of
> another mind:
> 
> 47
> Insomuch that he discharged Menelaus from the accusations,
> who notwithstanding was cause of all the mischief: and those
> poor men, who, if they had told their cause, yea, before the
> Scythians, should have been judged innocent, them he condemned
> to death.
> 
> 48
> Thus they that followed the matter for the city, and for the
> people, and for the holy vessels, did soon suffer unjust
> punishment.
> 
> 49
> Wherefore even they of Tyrus, moved with hatred of that
> wicked deed, caused them to be honourably buried.
> 
> 50
> And so through the covetousness of them that were of power
> Menelaus remained still in authority, increasing in malice, and
> being a great traitor to the citizens.
> 
> 2Mac 5
> About the same time Antiochus prepared his second voyage into
> Egypt:
> 
> 2
> And then it happened, that through all the city, for the
> space almost of forty days, there were seen horsemen running in
> the air, in cloth of gold, and armed with lances, like a band of
> soldiers,
> 
> 3
> And troops of horsemen in array, encountering and running one
> against another, with shaking of shields, and multitude of
> pikes, and drawing of swords, and casting of darts, and
> glittering of golden ornaments, and harness of all sorts.
> 
> 4
> Wherefore every man prayed that that apparition might turn to
> good.
> 
> 5
> Now when there was gone forth a false rumour, as though
> Antiochus had been dead, Jason took at the least a thousand men,
> and suddenly made an assault upon the city; and they that were
> upon the walls being put back, and the city at length taken,
> Menelaus fled into the castle:
> 
> 6
> But Jason slew his own citizens without mercy, not
> considering that to get the day of them of his own nation would
> be a most unhappy day for him; but thinking they had been his
> enemies, and not his countrymen, whom he conquered.
> 
> 7
> Howbeit for all this he obtained not the principality, but at
> the last received shame for the reward of his treason, and fled
> again into the country of the Ammonites.
> 
> 8
> In the end therefore he had an unhappy return, being accused
> before Aretas the king of the Arabians, fleeing from city to
> city, pursued of all men, hated as a forsaker of the laws, and
> being had in abomination as an open enemy of his country and
> countrymen, he was cast out into Egypt.
> 
> 9
> Thus he that had driven many out of their country perished in
> a strange land, retiring to the Lacedemonians, and thinking
> there to find succour by reason of his kindred:
> 
> 10
> And he that had cast out many unburied had none to mourn for
> him, nor any solemn funerals at all, nor sepulchre with his
> fathers.
> 
> 11
> Now when this that was done came to the king's car, he
> thought that Judea had revolted: whereupon removing out of Egypt
> in a furious mind, he took the city by force of arms,
> 
> 12
> And commanded his men of war not to spare such as they met,
> and to slay such as went up upon the houses.
> 
> 13
> Thus there was killing of young and old, making away of men,
> women, and children, slaying of virgins and infants.
> 
> 14
> And there were destroyed within the space of three whole days
> fourscore thousand, whereof forty thousand were slain in the
> conflict; and no fewer sold than slain.
> 
> 15
> Yet was he not content with this, but presumed to go into
> the most holy temple of all the world; Menelaus, that traitor to
> the laws, and to his own country, being his guide:
> 
> 16
> And taking the holy vessels with polluted hands, and with
> profane hands pulling down the things that were dedicated by
> other kings to the augmentation and glory and honour of the
> place, he gave them away.
> 
> 17
> And so haughty was Antiochus in mind, that he considered not
> that the Lord was angry for a while for the sins of them that
> dwelt in the city, and therefore his eye was not upon the place.
> 
> 18
> For had they not been formerly wrapped in many sins, this
> man, as soon as he had come, had forthwith been scourged, and
> put back from his presumption, as Heliodorus was, whom Seleucus
> the king sent to view the treasury.
> 
> 19
> Nevertheless God did not choose the people for the place's
> sake, but the place far the people's sake.
> 
> 20
> And therefore the place itself, that was partaker with them
> of the adversity that happened to the nation, did afterward
> communicate in the benefits sent from the Lord: and as it was
> forsaken in the wrath of the Almighty, so again, the great Lord
> being reconciled, it was set up with all glory.
> 
> 21
> So when Antiochus had carried out of the temple a thousand
> and eight hundred talents, he departed in all haste unto
> Antiochia, weening in his pride to make the land navigable, and
> the sea passable by foot: such was the haughtiness of his mind.
> 
> 22
> And he left governors to vex the nation: at Jerusalem,
> Philip, for his country a Phrygian, and for manners more
> barbarous than he that set him there;
> 
> 23
> And at Garizim, Andronicus; and besides, Menelaus, who worse
> than all the rest bare an heavy hand over the citizens, having a
> malicious mind against his countrymen the Jews.
> 
> 24
> He sent also that detestable ringleader Apollonius with an
> army of two and twenty thousand, commanding him to slay all
> those that were in their best age, and to sell the women and the
> younger sort:
> 
> 25
> Who coming to Jerusalem, and pretending peace, did forbear
> till the holy day of the sabbath, when taking the Jews keeping
> holy day, he commanded his men to arm themselves.
> 
> 26
> And so he slew all them that were gone to the celebrating of
> the sabbath, and running through the city with weapons slew
> great multitudes.
> 
> 27
> But Judas Maccabeus with nine others, or thereabout, withdrew
> himself into the wilderness, and lived in the mountains after
> the manner of beasts, with his company, who fed on herbs
> continually, lest they should be partakers of the pollution.
> 
> 2Mac 6
> Not long after this the king sent an old man of Athens to
> compel the Jews to depart from the laws of their fathers, and
> not to live after the laws of God:
> 
> 2
> And to pollute also the temple in Jerusalem, and to call it
> the temple of Jupiter Olympius; and that in Garizim, of Jupiter
> the Defender of strangers, as they did desire that dwelt in the
> place.
> 
> 3
> The coming in of this mischief was sore and grievous to the
> people:
> 
> 4
> For the temple was filled with riot and revelling by the
> Gentiles, who dallied with harlots, and had to do with women
> within the circuit of the holy places, and besides that brought
> in things that were not lawful.
> 
> 5
> The altar also was filled with profane things, which the law
> forbiddeth.
> 
> 6
> Neither was it lawful for a man to keep sabbath days or
> ancient fasts, or to profess himself at all to be a Jew.
> 
> 7
> And in the day of the king's birth every month they were
> brought by bitter constraint to eat of the sacrifices; and when
> the fast of Bacchus was kept, the Jews were compelled to go in
> procession to Bacchus, carrying ivy.
> 
> 8
> Moreover there went out a decree to the neighbour cities of
> the heathen, by the suggestion of Ptolemee, against the Jews,
> that they should observe the same fashions, and be partakers of
> their sacrifices:
> 
> 9
> And whoso would not conform themselves to the manners of the
> Gentiles should be put to death. Then might a man have seen the
> present misery.
> 
> 10
> For there were two women brought, who had circumcised their
> children; whom when they had openly led round about the city,
> the babes handing at their breasts, they cast them down headlong
> from the wall.
> 
> 11
> And others, that had run together into caves near by, to keep
> the sabbath day secretly, being discovered by Philip, were all
> burnt together, because they made a conscience to help
> themselves for the honour of the most sacred day.
> 
> 12
> Now I beseech those that read this book, that they be not
> discouraged for these calamities, but that they judge those
> punishments not to be for destruction, but for a chastening of
> our nation.
> 
> 13
> For it is a token of his great goodness, when wicked doers
> are not suffered any long time, but forthwith punished.
> 
> 14
> For not as with other nations, whom the Lord patiently
> forbeareth to punish, till they be come to the fulness of their
> sins, so dealeth he with us,
> 
> 15
> Lest that, being come to the height of sin, afterwards he
> should take vengeance of us.
> 
> 16
> And therefore he never withdraweth his mercy from us: and
> though he punish with adversity, yet doth he never forsake his
> people.
> 
> 17
> But let this that we at spoken be for a warning unto us. And
> now will we come to the declaring of the matter in a few words.
> 
> 18
> Eleazar, one of the principal scribes, an aged man, and of a
> well favoured countenance, was constrained to open his mouth,
> and to eat swine's flesh.
> 
> 19
> But he, choosing rather to die gloriously, than to live
> stained with such an abomination, spit it forth, and came of his
> own accord to the torment,
> 
> 20
> As it behoved them to come, that are resolute to stand out
> against such things, as are not lawful for love of life to be
> tasted.
> 
> 21
> But they that had the charge of that wicked feast, for the
> old acquaintance they had with the man, taking him aside,
> besought him to bring flesh of his own provision, such as was
> lawful for him to use, and make as if he did eat of the flesh
> taken from the sacrifice commanded by the king;
> 
> 22
> That in so doing he might be delivered from death, and for
> the old friendship with them find favour.
> 
> 23
> But he began to consider discreetly, and as became his age,
> and the excellency of his ancient years, and the honour of his
> gray head, whereon was come, and his most honest education from
> a child, or rather the holy law made and given by God: therefore
> he answered accordingly, and willed them straightways to send
> him to the grave.
> 
> 24
> For it becometh not our age, said he, in any wise to
> dissemble, whereby many young persons might think that Eleazar,
> being fourscore years old and ten, were now gone to a strange
> religion;
> 
> 25
> And so they through mine hypocrisy, and desire to live a
> little time and a moment longer, should be deceived by me, and I
> get a stain to mine old age, and make it abominable.
> 
> 26
> For though for the present time I should be delivered from
> the punishment of men: yet should I not escape the hand of the
> Almighty, neither alive, nor dead.
> 
> 27
> Wherefore now, manfully changing this life, I will shew
> myself such an one as mine age requireth,
> 
> 28
> And leave a notable example to such as be young to die
> willingly and courageously for the honourable and holy laws. And
> when he had said these words, immediately he went to the
> torment:
> 
> 29
> They that led him changing the good will they bare him a
> little before into hatred, because the foresaid speeches
> proceeded, as they thought, from a desperate mind.
> 
> 30
> But when he was ready to die with stripes, he groaned, and
> said, It is manifest unto the Lord, that hath the holy
> knowledge, that whereas I might have been delivered from death,
> I now endure sore pains in body by being beaten: but in soul am
> well content to suffer these things, because I fear him.
> 
> 31
> And thus this man died, leaving his death for an example of a
> noble courage, and a memorial of virtue, not only unto young
> men, but unto all his nation.
> 
> 2Mac 7
> It came to pass also, that seven brethren with their mother
> were taken, and compelled by the king against the law to taste
> swine's flesh, and were tormented with scourges and whips.
> 
> 2
> But one of them that spake first said thus, What wouldest
> thou ask or learn of us? we are ready to die, rather than to
> transgress the laws of our fathers.
> 
> 3
> Then the king, being in a rage, commanded pans and caldrons
> to be made hot:
> 
> 4
> Which forthwith being heated, he commanded to cut out the
> tongue of him that spake first, and to cut off the utmost parts
> of his body, the rest of his brethren and his mother looking on.
> 
> 5
> Now when he was thus maimed in all his members, he commanded
> him being yet alive to be brought to the fire, and to be fried
> in the pan: and as the vapour of the pan was for a good space
> dispersed, they exhorted one another with the mother to die
> manfully, saying thus,
> 
> 6
> The Lord God looketh upon us, and in truth hath comfort in
> us, as Moses in his song, which witnessed to their faces,
> declared, saying, And he shall be comforted in his servants.
> 
> 7
> So when the first was dead after this number, they brought
> the second to make him a mocking stock: and when they had pulled
> off the skin of his head with the hair, they asked him, Wilt
> thou eat, before thou be punished throughout every member of thy
> body?
> 
> 8
> But he answered in his own language, and said, No. Wherefore
> he also received the next torment in order, as the former did.
> 
> 9
> And when he was at the last gasp, he said, Thou like a fury
> takest us out of this present life, but the King of the world
> shall raise us up, who have died for his laws, unto everlasting
> life.
> 
> 10
> After him was the third made a mocking stock: and when he was
> required, he put out his tongue, and that right soon, holding
> forth his hands manfully.
> 
> 11
> And said courageously, These I had from heaven; and for his
> laws I despise them; and from him I hope to receive them again.
> 
> 12
> Insomuch that the king, and they that were with him,
> marvelled at the young man's courage, for that he nothing
> regarded the pains.
> 
> 13
> Now when this man was dead also, they tormented and mangled
> the fourth in like manner.
> 
> 14
> So when he was ready to die he said thus, It is good, being
> put to death by men, to look for hope from God to be raised up
> again by him: as for thee, thou shalt have no resurrection to
> life.
> 
> 15
> Afterward they brought the fifth also, and mangled him.
> 
> 16
> Then looked he unto the king, and said, Thou hast power over
> men, thou art corruptible, thou doest what thou wilt; yet think
> not that our nation is forsaken of God;
> 
> 17
> But abide a while, and behold his great power, how he will
> torment thee and thy seed.
> 
> 18
> After him also they brought the sixth, who being ready to die
> said, Be not deceived without cause: for we suffer these things
> for ourselves, having sinned against our God: therefore
> marvellous things are done unto us.
> 
> 19
> But think not thou, that takest in hand to strive against
> God, that thou shalt escape unpunished.
> 
> 20
> But the mother was marvellous above all, and worthy of
> honourable memory: for when she saw her seven sons slain within
> the space of one day, she bare it with a good courage, because
> of the hope that she had in the Lord.
> 
> 21
> Yea, she exhorted every one of them in her own language,
> filled with courageous spirits; and stirring up her womanish
> thoughts with a manly stomach, she said unto them,
> 
> 22
> I cannot tell how ye came into my womb: for I neither gave
> you breath nor life, neither was it I that formed the members of
> every one of you;
> 
> 23
> But doubtless the Creator of the world, who formed the
> generation of man, and found out the beginning of all things,
> will also of his own mercy give you breath and life again, as ye
> now regard not your own selves for his laws' sake.
> 
> 24
> Now Antiochus, thinking himself despised, and suspecting it
> to be a reproachful speech, whilst the youngest was yet alive,
> did not only exhort him by words, but also assured him with
> oaths, that he would make him both a rich and a happy man, if he
> would turn from the laws of his fathers; and that also he would
> take him for his friend, and trust him with affairs.
> 
> 25
> But when the young man would in no case hearken unto him, the
> king called his mother, and exhorted her that she would counsel
> the young man to save his life.
> 
> 26
> And when he had exhorted her with many words, she promised
> him that she would counsel her son.
> 
> 27
> But she bowing herself toward him, laughing the cruel tyrant
> to scorn, spake in her country language on this manner; O my
> son, have pity upon me that bare thee nine months in my womb,
> and gave thee such three years, and nourished thee, and brought
> thee up unto this age, and endured the troubles of education.
> 
> 28
> I beseech thee, my son, look upon the heaven and the earth,
> and all that is therein, and consider that God made them of
> things that were not; and so was mankind made likewise.
> 
> 29
> Fear not this tormentor, but, being worthy of thy brethren,
> take thy death that I may receive thee again in mercy with thy
> brethren.
> 
> 30
> Whiles she was yet speaking these words, the young man said,
> Whom wait ye for? I will not obey the king's commandment: but I
> will obey the commandment of the law that was given unto our
> fathers by Moses.
> 
> 31
> And thou, that hast been the author of all mischief against
> the Hebrews, shalt not escape the hands of God.
> 
> 32
> For we suffer because of our sins.
> 
> 33
> And though the living Lord be angry with us a little while
> for our chastening and correction, yet shall he be at one again
> with his servants.
> 
> 34
> But thou, O godless man, and of all other most wicked, be not
> lifted up without a cause, nor puffed up with uncertain hopes,
> lifting up thy hand against the servants of God:
> 
> 35
> For thou hast not yet escaped the judgment of Almighty God,
> who seeth all things.
> 
> 36
> For our brethren, who now have suffered a short pain, are
> dead under God's covenant of everlasting life: but thou, through
> the judgment of God, shalt receive just punishment for thy
> pride.
> 
> 37
> But I, as my brethren, offer up my body and life for the laws
> of our fathers, beseeching God that he would speedily be
> merciful unto our nation; and that thou by torments and plagues
> mayest confess, that he alone is God;
> 
> 38
> And that in me and my brethren the wrath of the Almighty,
> which is justly brought upon our nation, may cease.
> 
> 39
> Than the king' being in a rage, handed him worse than all the
> rest, and took it grievously that he was mocked.
> 
> 40
> So this man died undefiled, and put his whole trust in the
> Lord.
> 
> 41
> Last of all after the sons the mother died.
> 
> 42
> Let this be enough now to have spoken concerning the
> idolatrous feasts, and the extreme tortures.
> 
> 2Mac 8
> Then Judas Maccabeus, and they that were with him, went
> privily into the towns, and called their kinsfolks together, and
> took unto them all such as continued in the Jews' religion, and
> assembled about six thousand men.
> 
> 2
> And they called upon the Lord, that he would look upon the
> people that was trodden down of all; and also pity the temple
> profaned of ungodly men;
> 
> 3
> And that he would have compassion upon the city, sore
> defaced, and ready to be made even with the ground; and hear the
> blood that cried unto him,
> 
> 4
> And remember the wicked slaughter of harmless infants, and
> the blasphemies committed against his name; and that he would
> shew his hatred against the wicked.
> 
> 5
> Now when Maccabeus had his company about him, he could not be
> withstood by the heathen: for the wrath of the Lord was turned
> into mercy.
> 
> 6
> Therefore he came at unawares, and burnt up towns and cities,
> and got into his hands the most commodious places, and overcame
> and put to flight no small number of his enemies.
> 
> 7
> But specially took he advantage of the night for such privy
> attempts, insomuch that the fruit of his holiness was spread
> every where.
> 
> 8
> So when Philip saw that this man increased by little and
> little, and that things prospered with him still more and more,
> he wrote unto Ptolemeus, the governor of Celosyria and Phenice,
> to yield more aid to the king's affairs.
> 
> 9
> Then forthwith choosing Nicanor the son of Patroclus, one of
> his special friends, he sent him with no fewer than twenty
> thousand of all nations under him, to root out the whole
> generation of the Jews; and with him he joined also Gorgias a
> captain, who in matters of war had great experience.
> 
> 10
> So Nicanor undertook to make so much money of the captive
> Jews, as should defray the tribute of two thousand talents,
> which the king was to pay to the Romans.
> 
> 11
> Wherefore immediately he sent to the cities upon the sea
> coast, proclaiming a sale of the captive Jews, and promising
> that they should have fourscore and ten bodies for one talent,
> not expecting the vengeance that was to follow upon him from the
> Almighty God.
> 
> 12
> Now when word was brought unto Judas of Nicanor's coming, and
> he had imparted unto those that were with him that the army was
> at hand,
> 
> 13
> They that were fearful, and distrusted the justice of God,
> fled, and conveyed themselves away.
> 
> 14
> Others sold all that they had left, and withal besought the
> Lord to deliver them, sold by the wicked Nicanor before they met
> together:
> 
> 15
> And if not for their own sakes, yet for the covenants he had
> made with their fathers, and for his holy and glorious name's
> sake, by which they were called.
> 
> 16
> So Maccabeus called his men together unto the number of six
> thousand, and exhorted them not to be stricken with terror of
> the enemy, nor to fear the great multitude of the heathen, who
> came wrongly against them; but to fight manfully,
> 
> 17
> And to set before their eyes the injury that they had
> unjustly done to the holy place, and the cruel handling of the
> city, whereof they made a mockery, and also the taking away of
> the government of their forefathers:
> 
> 18
> For they, said he, trust in their weapons and boldness; but
> our confidence is in the Almighty who at a beck can cast down
> both them that come against us, and also all the world.
> 
> 19
> Moreover, he recounted unto them what helps their forefathers
> had found, and how they were delivered, when under Sennacherib
> an hundred fourscore and five thousand perished.
> 
> 20
> And he told them of the battle that they had in Babylon with
> the Galatians, how they came but eight thousand in all to the
> business, with four thousand Macedonians, and that the
> Macedonians being perplexed, the eight thousand destroyed an
> hundred and twenty thousand because of the help that they had
> from heaven, and so received a great booty.
> 
> 21
> Thus when he had made them bold with these words, and ready
> to die for the law and the country, he divided his army into
> four parts;
> 
> 22
> And joined with himself his own brethren, leaders of each
> band, to wit Simon, and Joseph, and Jonathan, giving each one
> fifteen hundred men.
> 
> 23
> Also he appointed Eleazar to read the holy book: and when he
> had given them this watchword, The help of God; himself leading
> the first band,
> 
> 24
> And by the help of the Almighty they slew above nine thousand
> of their enemies, and wounded and maimed the most part of
> Nicanor's host, and so put all to flight;
> 
> 25
> And took their money that came to buy them, and pursued them
> far: but lacking time they returned:
> 
> 26
> For it was the day before the sabbath, and therefore they
> would no longer pursue them.
> 
> 27
> So when they had gathered their armour together, and spoiled
> their enemies, they occupied themselves about the sabbath,
> yielding exceeding praise and thanks to the Lord, who had
> preserved them unto that day, which was the beginning of mercy
> distilling upon them.
> 
> 28
> And after the sabbath, when they had given part of the spoils
> to the maimed, and the widows, and orphans, the residue they
> divided among themselves and their servants.
> 
> 29
> When this was done, and they had made a common supplication,
> they besought the merciful Lord to be reconciled with his
> servants for ever.
> 
> 30
> Moreover of those that were with Timotheus and Bacchides, who
> fought against them, they slew above twenty thousand, and very
> easily got high and strong holds, and divided among themselves
> many spoils more, and made the maimed, orphans, widows, yea, and
> the aged also, equal in spoils with themselves.
> 
> 31
> And when they had gathered their armour together, they laid
> them up all carefully in convenient places, and the remnant of
> the spoils they brought to Jerusalem.
> 
> 32
> They slew also Philarches, that wicked person, who was with
> Timotheus, and had annoyed the Jews many ways.
> 
> 33
> Furthermore at such time as they kept the feast for the
> victory in their country they burnt Callisthenes, that had set
> fire upon the holy gates, who had fled into a little house; and
> so he received a reward meet for his wickedness.
> 
> 34
> As for that most ungracious Nicanor, who had brought a
> thousand merchants to buy the Jews,
> 
> 35
> He was through the help of the Lord brought down by them, of
> whom he made least account; and putting off his glorious
> apparel, and discharging his company, he came like a fugitive
> servant through the midland unto Antioch having very great
> dishonour, for that his host was destroyed.
> 
> 36
> Thus he, that took upon him to make good to the Romans their
> tribute by means of captives in Jerusalem, told abroad, that the
> Jews had God to fight for them, and therefore they could not be
> hurt, because they followed the laws that he gave them.
> 
> 2Mac 9
> About that time came Antiochus with dishonour out of the
> country of Persia
> 
> 2
> For he had entered the city called Persepolis, and went about
> to rob the temple, and to hold the city; whereupon the multitude
> running to defend themselves with their weapons put them to
> flight; and so it happened, that Antiochus being put to flight
> of the inhabitants returned with shame.
> 
> 3
> Now when he came to Ecbatane, news was brought him what had
> happened unto Nicanor and Timotheus.
> 
> 4
> Then swelling with anger. he thought to avenge upon the Jews
> the disgrace done unto him by those that made him flee.
> Therefore commanded he his chariotman to drive without ceasing,
> and to dispatch the journey, the judgment of GOd now following
> him. For he had spoken proudly in this sort, That he would come
> to Jerusalem and make it a common burying place of the Jew
> 
> s.
> 
> 5
> But the Lord Almighty, the God of Isreal, smote him with an
> incurable and invisible plague: or as soon as he had spoken
> these words, a pain of the bowels that was remediless came upon
> him, and sore torments of the inner parts;
> 
> 6
> And that most justly: for he had tormented other men's bowels
> with many and strange torments.
> 
> 7
> Howbeit he nothing at all ceased from his bragging, but still
> was filled with pride, breathing out fire in his rage against
> the Jews, and commanding to haste the journey: but it came to
> pass that he fell down from his chariot, carried violently; so
> that having a sore fall, all the members of his body were much
> pained.
> 
> 8
> And thus he that a little afore thought he might command the
> waves of the sea, (so proud was he beyond the condition of man)
> and weigh the high mountains in a balance, was now cast on the
> ground, and carried in an horselitter, shewing forth unto all
> the manifest power of God.
> 
> 9
> So that the worms rose up out of the body of this wicked man,
> and whiles he lived in sorrow and pain, his flesh fell away, and
> the filthiness of his smell was noisome to all his army.
> 
> 10
> And the man, that thought a little afore he could reach to
> the stars of heaven, no man could endure to carry for his
> intolerable stink.
> 
> 11
> Here therefore, being plagued, he began to leave off his
> great pride, and to come to the knowledge of himself by the
> scourge of God, his pain increasing every moment.
> 
> 12
> And when he himself could not abide his own smell, he said
> these words, It is meet to be subject unto God, and that a man
> that is mortal should not proudly think of himself if he were
> God.
> 
> 13
> This wicked person vowed also unto the Lord, who now no more
> would have mercy upon him, saying thus,
> 
> 14
> That the holy city (to the which he was going in haste to lay
> it even with the ground, and to make it a common buryingplace,)
> he would set at liberty:
> 
> 15
> And as touching the Jews, whom he had judged not worthy so
> much as to be buried, but to be cast out with their children to
> be devoured of the fowls and wild beasts, he would make them all
> equals to the citizens of Athens:
> 
> 16
> And the holy temple, which before he had spoiled, he would
> garnish with goodly gifts, and restore all the holy vessels with
> many more, and out of his own revenue defray the charges
> belonging to the sacrifices:
> 
> 17
> Yea, and that also he would become a Jew himself, and go
> through all the world that was inhabited, and declare the power
> of God.
> 
> 18
> But for all this his pains would not cease: for the just
> judgment of God was come upon him: therefore despairing of his
> health, he wrote unto the Jews the letter underwritten,
> containing the form of a supplication, after this manner:
> 
> 19
> Antiochus, king and governor, to the good Jews his citizens
> wisheth much joy, health, and prosperity:
> 
> 20
> If ye and your children fare well, and your affairs be to
> your contentment, I give very great thanks to God, having my
> hope in heaven.
> 
> 21
> As for me, I was weak, or else I would have remembered kindly
> your honour and good will returning out of Persia, and being
> taken with a grievous disease, I thought it necessary to care
> for the common safety of all:
> 
> 22
> Not distrusting mine health, but having great hope to escape
> this sickness.
> 
> 23
> But considering that even my father, at what time he led an
> army into the high countries. appointed a successor,
> 
> 24
> To the end that, if any thing fell out contrary to
> expectation, or if any tidings were brought that were grievous,
> they of the land, knowing to whom the state was left, might not
> be troubled:
> 
> 25
> Again, considering how that the princes that are borderers
> and neighbours unto my kingdom wait for opportunities, and
> expect what shall be the event. I have appointed my son
> Antiochus king, whom I often committed and commended unto many
> of you, when I went up into the high provinces; to whom I have
> written as followeth:
> 
> 26
> Therefore I pray and request you to remember the benefits
> that I have done unto you generally, and in special, and that
> every man will be still faithful to me and my son.
> 
> 27
> For I am persuaded that he understanding my mind will
> favourably and graciously yield to your desires.
> 
> 28
> Thus the murderer and blasphemer having suffered most
> grievously, as he entreated other men, so died he a miserable
> death in a strange country in the mountains.
> 
> 29
> And Philip, that was brought up with him, carried away his
> body, who also fearing the son of Antiochus went into Egypt to
> Ptolemeus Philometor.
> 
> 2Mac 10
> Now Maccabeus and his company, the Lord guiding them,
> recovered the temple and the city:
> 
> 2
> But the altars which the heathen had built in the open
> street, and also the chapels, they pulled down.
> 
> 3
> And having cleansed the temple they made another altar, and
> striking stones they took fire out of them, and offered a
> sacrifice after two years, and set forth incense, and lights,
> and shewbread.
> 
> 4
> When that was done, they fell flat down, and besought the
> Lord that they might come no more into such troubles; but if
> they sinned any more against him, that he himself would chasten
> them with mercy, and that they might not be delivered unto the
> blasphemous and barbarous nations.
> 
> 5
> Now upon the same day that the strangers profaned the temple,
> on the very same day it was cleansed again, even the five and
> twentieth day of the same month, which is Casleu.
> 
> 6
> And they kept the eight days with gladness, as in the feast
> of the tabernacles, remembering that not long afore they had
> held the feast of the tabernacles, when as they wandered in the
> mountains and dens like beasts.
> 
> 7
> Therefore they bare branches, and fair boughs, and palms
> also, and sang psalms unto him that had given them good success
> in cleansing his place.
> 
> 8
> They ordained also by a common statute and decree, That every
> year those days should be kept of the whole nation of the Jews.
> 
> 9
> And this was the end of Antiochus, called Epiphanes.
> 
> 10
> Now will we declare the acts of Antiochus Eupator, who was
> the son of this wicked man, gathering briefly the calamities of
> the wars.
> 
> 11
> So when he was come to the crown, he set one Lysias over the
> affairs of his realm, and appointed him his chief governor of
> Celosyria and Phenice.
> 
> 12
> For Ptolemeus, that was called Macron, choosing rather to do
> justice unto the Jews for the wrong that had been done unto
> them, endeavoured to continue peace with them.
> 
> 13
> Whereupon being accused of the king's friends before Eupator,
> and called traitor at every word because he had left Cyprus,
> that Philometor had committed unto him, and departed to
> Antiochus Epiphanes, and seeing that he was in no honourable
> place, he was so discouraged, that he poisoned himself and died.
> 
> 14
> But when Gorgias was governor of the holds, he hired
> soldiers, and nourished war continually with the Jews:
> 
> 15
> And therewithall the Idumeans, having gotten into their hands
> the most commodious holds, kept the Jews occupied, and receiving
> those that were banished from Jerusalem, they went about to
> nourish war.
> 
> 16
> Then they that were with Maccabeus made supplication, and
> besought God that he would be their helper; and so they ran with
> violence upon the strong holds of the Idumeans,
> 
> 17
> And assaulting them strongly, they won the holds, and kept
> off all that fought upon the wall, and slew all that fell into
> their hands, and killed no fewer than twenty thousand.
> 
> 18
> And because certain, who were no less than nine thousand,
> were fled together into two very strong castles, having all
> manner of things convenient to sustain the siege,
> 
> 19
> Maccabeus left Simon and Joseph, and Zaccheus also, and them
> that were with him, who were enough to besiege them, and
> departed himself unto those places which more needed his help.
> 
> 20
> Now they that were with Simon, being led with covetousness,
> were persuaded for money through certain of those that were in
> the castle, and took seventy thousand drachms, and let some of
> them escape.
> 
> 21
> But when it was told Maccabeus what was done, he called the
> governors of the people together, and accused those men, that
> they had sold their brethren for money, and set their enemies
> free to fight against them.
> 
> 22
> So he slew those that were found traitors, and immediately
> took the two castles.
> 
> 23
> And having good success with his weapons in all things he
> took in hand, he slew in the two holds more than twenty
> thousand.
> 
> 24
> Now Timotheus, whom the Jews had overcome before, when he had
> gathered a great multitude of foreign forces, and horses out of
> Asia not a few, came as though he would take Jewry by force of
> arms.
> 
> 25
> But when he drew near, they that were with Maccabeus turned
> themselves to pray unto God, and sprinkled earth upon their
> heads, and girded their loins with sackcloth,
> 
> 26
> And fell down at the foot of the altar, and besought him to
> be merciful to them, and to be an enemy to their enemies, and an
> adversary to their adversaries, as the law declareth.
> 
> 27
> So after the prayer they took their weapons, and went on
> further from the city: and when they drew near to their enemies,
> they kept by themselves.
> 
> 28
> Now the sun being newly risen, they joined both together; the
> one part having together with their virtue their refuge also
> unto the Lord for a pledge of their success and victory: the
> other side making their rage leader of their battle
> 
> 29
> But when the battle waxed strong, there appeared unto the
> enemies from heaven five comely men upon horses, with bridles of
> gold, and two of them led the Jews,
> 
> 30
> And took Maccabeus betwixt them, and covered him on every
> side weapons, and kept him safe, but shot arrows and lightnings
> against the enemies: so that being confounded with blindness,
> and full of trouble, they were killed.
> 
> 31
> And there were slain of footmen twenty thousand and five
> hundred, and six hundred horsemen.
> 
> 32
> As for Timotheus himself, he fled into a very strong hold,
> called Gawra, where Chereas was governor.
> 
> 33
> But they that were with Maccabeus laid siege against the
> fortress courageously four days.
> 
> 34
> And they that were within, trusting to the strength of the
> place, blasphemed exceedingly, and uttered wicked words.
> 
> 35
> Nevertheless upon the fifth day early twenty young men of
> Maccabeus' company, inflamed with anger because of the
> blasphemies, assaulted the wall manly, and with a fierce courage
> killed all that they met withal.
> 
> 36
> Others likewise ascending after them, whiles they were busied
> with them that were within, burnt the towers, and kindling fires
> burnt the blasphemers alive; and others broke open the gates,
> and, having received in the rest of the army, took the city,
> 
> 37
> And killed Timotheus, that was hid in a certain pit, and
> Chereas his brother, with Apollophanes.
> 
> 38
> When this was done, they praised the Lord with psalms and
> thanksgiving, who had done so great things for Israel, and given
> them the victory.
> 
> 2Mac 11
> Not long after the, Lysias the king's protector and cousin,
> who also managed the affairs, took sore displeasure for the
> things that were done.
> 
> 2
> And when he had gathered about fourscore thousand with all
> the horsemen, he came against the Jews, thinking to make the
> city an habitation of the Gentiles,
> 
> 3
> And to make a gain of the temple, as of the other chapels of
> the heathen, and to set the high priesthood to sale every year:
> 
> 4
> Not at all considering the power of God but puffed up with
> his ten thousands of footmen, and his thousands of horsemen, and
> his fourscore elephants.
> 
> 5
> So he came to Judea, and drew near to Bethsura, which was a
> strong town, but distant from Jerusalem about five furlongs, and
> he laid sore siege unto it.
> 
> 6
> Now when they that were with Maccabeus heard that he besieged
> the holds, they and all the people with lamentation and tears
> besought the Lord that he would send a good angel to deliver
> Israel.
> 
> 7
> Then Maccabeus himself first of all took weapons, exhorting
> the other that they would jeopard themselves together with him
> to help their brethren: so they went forth together with a
> willing mind.
> 
> 8
> And as they were at Jerusalem, there appeared before them on
> horseback one in white clothing, shaking his armour of gold.
> 
> 9
> Then they praised the merciful God all together, and took
> heart, insomuch that they were ready not only to fight with men,
> but with most cruel beasts, and to pierce through walls of iron.
> 
> 10
> Thus they marched forward in their armour, having an helper
> from heaven: for the Lord was merciful unto them
> 
> 11
> And giving a charge upon their enemies like lions, they slew
> eleven thousand footmen, and sixteen hundred horsemen, and put
> all the other to flight.
> 
> 12
> Many of them also being wounded escaped naked; and Lysias
> himself fled away shamefully, and so escaped.
> 
> 13
> Who, as he was a man of understanding, casting with himself
> what loss he had had, and considering that the Hebrews could not
> be overcome, because the Almighty God helped them, he sent unto
> them,
> 
> 14
> And persuaded them to agree to all reasonable conditions, and
> promised that he would persuade the king that he must needs be a
> friend unto them.
> 
> 15
> Then Maccabeus consented to all that Lysias desired, being
> careful of the common good; and whatsoever Maccabeus wrote unto
> Lysias concerning the Jews, the king granted it.
> 
> 16
> For there were letters written unto the Jews from Lysias to
> this effect: Lysias unto the people of the Jews sendeth
> greeting:
> 
> 17
> John and Absolom, who were sent from you, delivered me the
> petition subscribed, and made request for the performance of the
> contents thereof.
> 
> 18
> Therefore what things soever were meet to be reported to the
> king, I have declared them, and he hath granted as much as might
> be.
> 
> 19
> And if then ye will keep yourselves loyal to the state,
> hereafter also will I endeavour to be a means of your good.
> 
> 20
> But of the particulars I have given order both to these and
> the other that came from me, to commune with you.
> 
> 21
> Fare ye well. The hundred and eight and fortieth year, the
> four and twentieth day of the month Dioscorinthius.
> 
> 22
> Now the king's letter contained these words: King Antiochus
> unto his brother Lysias sendeth greeting:
> 
> 23
> Since our father is translated unto the gods, our will is,
> that they that are in our realm live quietly, that every one may
> attend upon his own affairs.
> 
> 24
> We understand also that the Jews would not consent to our
> father, for to be brought unto the custom of the Gentiles, but
> had rather keep their own manner of living: for the which cause
> they require of us, that we should suffer them to live after
> their own laws.
> 
> 25
> Wherefore our mind is, that this nation shall be in rest, and
> we have determined to restore them their temple, that they may
> live according to the customs of their forefathers.
> 
> 26
> Thou shalt do well therefore to send unto them, and grant
> them peace, that when they are certified of our mind, they may
> be of good comfort, and ever go cheerfully about their own
> affairs.
> 
> 27
> And the letter of the king unto the nation of the Jews was
> after this manner: King Antiochus sendeth greeting unto the
> council, and the rest of the Jews:
> 
> 28
> If ye fare well, we have our desire; we are also in good
> health.
> 
> 29
> Menelaus declared unto us, that your desire was to return
> home, and to follow your own business:
> 
> 30
> Wherefore they that will depart shall have safe conduct till
> the thirtieth day of Xanthicus with security.
> 
> 31
> And the Jews shall use their own kind of meats and laws, as
> before; and none of them any manner of ways shall be molested
> for things ignorantly done.
> 
> 32
> I have sent also Menelaus, that he may comfort you.
> 
> 33
> Fare ye well. In the hundred forty and eighth year, and the
> fifteenth day of the month Xanthicus.
> 
> 34
> The Romans also sent unto them a letter containing these
> words: Quintus Memmius and Titus Manlius, ambassadors of the
> Romans, send greeting unto the people of the Jews.
> 
> 35
> Whatsoever Lysias the king's cousin hath granted, therewith
> we also are well pleased.
> 
> 36
> But touching such things as he judged to be referred to the
> king, after ye have advised thereof, send one forthwith, that we
> may declare as it is convenient for you: for we are now going to
> Antioch.
> 
> 37
> Therefore send some with speed, that we may know what is your
> mind.
> 
> 38
> Farewell. This hundred and eight and fortieth year, the
> fifteenth day of the month Xanthicus.
> 
> 2Mac 12
> When these covenants were made, Lysias went unto the king,
> and the Jews were about their husbandry.
> 
> 2
> But of the governours of several places, Timotheus, and
> Apollonius the son of Genneus, also Hieronymus, and Demophon,
> and beside them Nicanor the governor of Cyprus, would not suffer
> them to be quiet and live in peace.
> 
> 3
> The men of Joppa also did such an ungodly deed: they prayed
> the Jews that dwelt among them to go with their wives and
> children into the boats which they had prepared, as though they
> had meant them no hurt.
> 
> 4
> Who accepted of it according to the common decree of the
> city, as being desirous to live in peace, and suspecting
> nothing: but when they were gone forth into the deep, they
> drowned no less than two hundred of them.
> 
> 5
> When Judas heard of this cruelty done unto his countrymen, he
> commanded those that were with him to make them ready.
> 
> 6
> And calling upon God the righteous Judge, he came against
> those murderers of his brethren, and burnt the haven by night,
> and set the boats on fire, and those that fled thither he slew.
> 
> 7
> And when the town was shut up, he went backward, as if he
> would return to root out all them of the city of Joppa.
> 
> 8
> But when he heard that the Jamnites were minded to do in like
> manner unto the Jews that dwelt among them,
> 
> 9
> He came upon the Jamnites also by night, and set fire on the
> haven and the navy, so that the light of the fire was seen at
> Jerusalem two hundred and forty furlongs off.
> 
> 10
> Now when they were gone from thence nine furlongs in their
> journey toward Timotheus, no fewer than five thousand men on
> foot and five hundred horsemen of the Arabians set upon him.
> 
> 11
> Whereupon there was a very sore battle; but Judas' side by
> the help of God got the victory; so that the Nomades of Arabia,
> being overcome, besought Judas for peace, promising both to give
> him cattle, and to pleasure him otherwise.
> 
> 12
> Then Judas, thinking indeed that they would be profitable in
> many things, granted them peace: whereupon they shook hands, and
> so they departed to their tents.
> 
> 13
> He went also about to make a bridge to a certain strong city,
> which was fenced about with walls, and inhabited by people of
> divers countries; and the name of it was Caspis.
> 
> 14
> But they that were within it put such trust in the strength
> of the walls and provision of victuals, that they behaved
> themselves rudely toward them that were with Judas, railing and
> blaspheming, and uttering such words as were not to be spoken.
> 
> 15
> Wherefore Judas with his company, calling upon the great Lord
> of the world, who without rams or engines of war did cast down
> Jericho in the time of Joshua, gave a fierce assault against the
> walls,
> 
> 16
> And took the city by the will of God, and made unspeakable
> slaughters, insomuch that a lake two furlongs broad near
> adjoining thereunto, being filled full, was seen running with
> blood.
> 
> 17
> Then departed they from thence seven hundred and fifty
> furlongs, and came to Characa unto the Jews that are called
> Tubieni.
> 
> 18
> But as for Timotheus, they found him not in the places: for
> before he had dispatched any thing, he departed from thence,
> having left a very strong garrison in a certain hold.
> 
> 19
> Howbeit Dositheus and Sosipater, who were of Maccabeus'
> captains, went forth, and slew those that Timotheus had left in
> the fortress, above ten thousand men.
> 
> 20
> And Maccabeus ranged his army by bands, and set them over the
> bands, and went against Timotheus, who had about him an hundred
> and twenty thousand men of foot, and two thousand and five
> hundred horsemen.
> 
> 21
> Now when Timotheus had knowledge of Judas' coming, he sent
> the women and children and the other baggage unto a fortress
> called Carnion: for the town was hard to besiege, and uneasy to
> come unto, by reason of the straitness of all the places.
> 
> 22
> But when Judas his first band came in sight, the enemies,
> being smitten with fear and terror through the appearing of him
> who seeth all things, fled amain, one running into this way,
> another that way, so as that they were often hurt of their own
> men, and wounded with the points of their own swords.
> 
> 23
> Judas also was very earnest in pursuing them, killing those
> wicked wretches, of whom he slew about thirty thousand men.
> 
> 24
> Moreover Timotheus himself fell into the hands of Dositheus
> and Sosipater, whom he besought with much craft to let him go
> with his life, because he had many of the Jews' parents, and the
> brethren of some of them, who, if they put him to death, should
> not be regarded.
> 
> 25
> So when he had assured them with many words that he would
> restore them without hurt, according to the agreement, they let
> him go for the saving of their brethren.
> 
> 26
> Then Maccabeus marched forth to Carnion, and to the temple of
> Atargatis, and there he slew five and twenty thousand persons.
> 
> 27
> And after he had put to flight and destroyed them, Judas
> removed the host toward Ephron, a strong city, wherein Lysias
> abode, and a great multitude of divers nations, and the strong
> young men kept the walls, and defended them mightily: wherein
> also was great provision of engines and darts.
> 
> 28
> But when Judas and his company had called upon Almighty God,
> who with his power breaketh the strength of his enemies, they
> won the city, and slew twenty and five thousand of them that
> were within,
> 
> 29
> From thence they departed to Scythopolis, which lieth six
> hundred furlongs from Jerusalem,
> 
> 30
> But when the Jews that dwelt there had testified that the
> Scythopolitans dealt lovingly with them, and entreated them
> kindly in the time of their adversity;
> 
> 31
> They gave them thanks, desiring them to be friendly still
> unto them: and so they came to Jerusalem, the feast of the weeks
> approaching.
> 
> 32
> And after the feast, called Pentecost, they went forth
> against Gorgias the governor of Idumea,
> 
> 33
> Who came out with three thousand men of foot and four hundred
> horsemen.
> 
> 34
> And it happened that in their fighting together a few of the
> Jews were slain.
> 
> 35
> At which time Dositheus, one of Bacenor's company, who was on
> horseback, and a strong man, was still upon Gorgias, and taking
> hold of his coat drew him by force; and when he would have taken
> that cursed man alive, a horseman of Thracia coming upon him
> smote off his shoulder, so that Gorgias fled unto Marisa.
> 
> 36
> Now when they that were with Gorgias had fought long, and
> were weary, Judas called upon the Lord, that he would shew
> himself to be their helper and leader of the battle.
> 
> 37
> And with that he began in his own language, and sung psalms
> with a loud voice, and rushing unawares upon Gorgias' men, he
> put them to flight.
> 
> 38
> So Judas gathered his host, and came into the city of
> Odollam, And when the seventh day came, they purified
> themselves, as the custom was, and kept the sabbath in the same
> place.
> 
> 39
> And upon the day following, as the use had been, Judas and
> his company came to take up the bodies of them that were slain,
> and to bury them with their kinsmen in their fathers' graves.
> 
> 40
> Now under the coats of every one that was slain they found
> things consecrated to the idols of the Jamnites, which is
> forbidden the Jews by the law. Then every man saw that this was
> the cause wherefore they were slain.
> 
> 41
> All men therefore praising the Lord, the righteous Judge, who
> had opened the things that were hid,
> 
> 42
> Betook themselves unto prayer, and besought him that the sin
> committed might wholly be put out of remembrance. Besides, that
> noble Judas exhorted the people to keep themselves from sin,
> forsomuch as they saw before their eyes the things that came to
> pass for the sins of those that were slain.
> 
> 43
> And when he had made a gathering throughout the company to
> the sum of two thousand drachms of silver, he sent it to
> Jerusalem to offer a sin offering, doing therein very well and
> honestly, in that he was mindful of the resurrection:
> 
> 44
> For if he had not hoped that they that were slain should have
> risen again, it had been superfluous and vain to pray for the
> dead.
> 
> 45
> And also in that he perceived that there was great favour
> laid up for those that died godly, it was an holy and good
> thought. Whereupon he made a reconciliation for the dead, that
> they might be delivered from sin.
> 
> 2Mac 13
> In the hundred forty and ninth year it was told Judas, that
> Antiochus Eupator was coming with a great power into Judea,
> 
> 2
> And with him Lysias his protector, and ruler of his affairs,
> having either of them a Grecian power of footmen, an hundred and
> ten thousand, and horsemen five thousand and three hundred, and
> elephants two and twenty, and three hundred chariots armed with
> hooks.
> 
> 3
> Menelaus also joined himself with them, and with great
> dissimulation encouraged Antiochus, not for the safeguard of the
> country, but because he thought to have been made governor.
> 
> 4
> But the King of kings moved Antiochus' mind against this
> wicked wretch, and Lysias informed the king that this man was
> the cause of all mischief, so that the king commanded to bring
> him unto Berea, and to put him to death, as the manner is in
> that place.
> 
> 5
> Now there was in that place a tower of fifty cubits high,
> full of ashes, and it had a round instrument which on every side
> hanged down into the ashes.
> 
> 6
> And whosoever was condemned of sacrilege, or had committed
> any other grievous crime, there did all men thrust him unto
> death.
> 
> 7
> Such a death it happened that wicked man to die, not having
> so much as burial in the earth; and that most justly:
> 
> 8
> For inasmuch as he had committed many sins about the altar,
> whose fire and ashes were holy, he received his death in ashes.
> 
> 9
> Now the king came with a barbarous and haughty mind to do far
> worse to the Jews, than had been done in his father's time.
> 
> 10
> Which things when Judas perceived, he commanded the multitude
> to call upon the Lord night and day, that if ever at any other
> time, he would now also help them, being at the point to be put
> from their law, from their country, and from the holy temple:
> 
> 11
> And that he would not suffer the people, that had even now
> been but a little refreshed, to be in subjection to the
> blasphemous nations.
> 
> 12
> So when they had all done this together, and besought the
> merciful Lord with weeping and fasting, and lying flat upon the
> ground three days long, Judas, having exhorted them, commanded
> they should be in a readiness.
> 
> 13
> And Judas, being apart with the elders, determined, before
> the king's host should enter into Judea, and get the city, to go
> forth and try the matter in fight by the help of the Lord.
> 
> 14
> So when he had committed all to the Creator of the world, and
> exhorted his soldiers to fight manfully, even unto death, for
> the laws, the temple, the city, the country, and the
> commonwealth, he camped by Modin:
> 
> 15
> And having given the watchword to them that were about him,
> Victory is of God; with the most valiant and choice young men he
> went in into the king's tent by night, and slew in the camp
> about four thousand men, and the chiefest of the elephants, with
> all that were upon him.
> 
> 16
> And at last they filled the camp with fear and tumult, and
> departed with good success.
> 
> 17
> This was done in the break of the day, because the protection
> of the Lord did help him.
> 
> 18
> Now when the king had taken a taste of the manliness of the
> Jews, he went about to take the holds by policy,
> 
> 19
> And marched toward Bethsura, which was a strong hold of the
> Jews: but he was put to flight, failed, and lost of his men:
> 
> 20
> For Judas had conveyed unto them that were in it such things
> as were necessary.
> 
> 21
> But Rhodocus, who was in the Jews' host, disclosed the
> secrets to the enemies; therefore he was sought out, and when
> they had gotten him, they put him in prison.
> 
> 22
> The king treated with them in Bethsum the second time, gave
> his hand, took their's, departed, fought with Judas, was
> overcome;
> 
> 23
> Heard that Philip, who was left over the affairs in Antioch,
> was desperately bent, confounded, intreated the Jews, submitted
> himself, and sware to all equal conditions, agreed with them,
> and offered sacrifice, honoured the temple, and dealt kindly
> with the place,
> 
> 24
> And accepted well of Maccabeus, made him principal governor
> from Ptolemais unto the Gerrhenians;
> 
> 25
> Came to Ptolemais: the people there were grieved for the
> covenants; for they stormed, because they would make their
> covenants void:
> 
> 26
> Lysias went up to the judgment seat, said as much as could be
> in defence of the cause, persuaded, pacified, made them well
> affected, returned to Antioch. Thus it went touching the king's
> coming and departing.
> 
> 2Mac 14
> After three years was Judas informed, that Demetrius the son
> of Seleucus, having entered by the haven of Tripolis with a
> great power and navy,
> 
> 2
> Had taken the country, and killed Antiochus, and Lysias his
> protector.
> 
> 3
> Now one Alcimus, who had been high priest, and had defiled
> himself wilfully in the times of their mingling with the
> Gentiles, seeing that by no means he could save himself, nor
> have any more access to the holy altar,
> 
> 4
> Came to king Demetrius in the hundred and one and fiftieth
> year, presenting unto him a crown of gold, and a palm, and also
> of the boughs which were used solemnly in the temple: and so
> that day he held his peace.
> 
> 5
> Howbeit having gotten opportunity to further his foolish
> enterprize, and being called into counsel by Demetrius, and
> asked how the Jews stood affected, and what they intended, he
> answered thereunto:
> 
> 6
> Those of the Jews that he called Assideans, whose captain is
> Judas Maccabeus, nourish war and are seditious, and will not let
> the rest be in peace.
> 
> 7
> Therefore I, being deprived of mine ancestors' honour, I mean
> the high priesthood, am now come hither:
> 
> 8
> First, verily for the unfeigned care I have of things
> pertaining to the king; and secondly, even for that I intend the
> good of mine own countrymen: for all our nation is in no small
> misery through the unadvised dealing of them aforersaid.
> 
> 9
> Wherefore, O king, seeing knowest all these things, be
> careful for the country, and our nation, which is pressed on
> every side, according to the clemency that thou readily shewest
> unto all.
> 
> 10
> For as long as Judas liveth, it is not possible that the
> state should be quiet.
> 
> 11
> This was no sooner spoken of him, but others of the king's
> friends, being maliciously set against Judas, did more incense
> Demetrius.
> 
> 12
> And forthwith calling Nicanor, who had been master of the
> elephants, and making him governor over Judea, he sent him
> forth,
> 
> 13
> Commanding him to slay Judas, and to scatter them that were
> with him, and to make Alcimus high priest of the great temple.
> 
> 14
> Then the heathen, that had fled out of Judea from Judas, came
> to Nicanor by flocks, thinking the harm and calamities ot the
> Jews to be their welfare.
> 
> 15
> Now when the Jews heard of Nicanor's coming, and that the
> heathen were up against them, they cast earth upon their heads,
> and made supplication to him that had established his people for
> ever, and who always helpeth his portion with manifestation of
> his presence.
> 
> 16
> So at the commandment of the captain they removed
> straightways from thence, and came near unto them at the town of
> Dessau.
> 
> 17
> Now Simon, Judas' brother, had joined battle with Nicanor,
> but was somewhat discomfited through the sudden silence of his
> enemies.
> 
> 18
> Nevertheless Nicanor, hearing of the manliness of them that
> were with Judas, and the courageousness that they had to fight
> for their country, durst not try the matter by the sword.
> 
> 19
> Wherefore he sent Posidonius, and Theodotus, and Mattathias,
> to make peace.
> 
> 20
> So when they had taken long advisement thereupon, and the
> captain had made the multitude acquainted therewith, and it
> appeared that they were all of one mind, they consented to the
> covenants,
> 
> 21
> And appointed a day to meet in together by themselves: and
> when the day came, and stools were set for either of them,
> 
> 22
> Ludas placed armed men ready in convenient places, lest some
> treachery should be suddenly practised by the enemies: so they
> made a peaceable conference.
> 
> 23
> Now Nicanor abode in Jerusalem, and did no hurt, but sent
> away the people that came flocking unto him.
> 
> 24
> And he would not willingly have Judas out of his sight: for
> he love the man from his heart
> 
> 25
> He prayed him also to take a wife, and to beget children: so
> he married, was quiet, and took part of this life.
> 
> 26
> But Alcimus, perceiving the love that was betwixt them, and
> considering the covenants that were made, came to Demetrius, and
> told him that Nicanor was not well affected toward the state;
> for that he had ordained Judas, a traitor to his realm, to be
> the king's successor.
> 
> 27
> Then the king being in a rage, and provoked with the
> accusations of the most wicked man, wrote to Nicanor, signifying
> that he was much displeased with the covenants, and commanding
> him that he should send Maccabeus prisoner in all haste unto
> Antioch.
> 
> 28
> When this came to Nicanor's hearing, he was much confounded
> in himself, and took it grievously that he should make void the
> articles which were agreed upon, the man being in no fault.
> 
> 29
> But because there was no dealing against the king, he watched
> his time to accomplish this thing by policy.
> 
> 30
> Notwithstanding, when Maccabeus saw that Nicanor began to be
> churlish unto him, and that he entreated him more roughly than
> he was wont, perceiving that such sour behaviour came not of
> good, he gathered together not a few of his men, and withdrew
> himself from Nicanor.
> 
> 31
> But the other, knowing that he was notably prevented by
> Judas' policy, came into the great and holy temple, and
> commanded the priests, that were offering their usual
> sacrifices, to deliver him the man.
> 
> 32
> And when they sware that they could not tell where the man
> was whom he sought,
> 
> 33
> He stretched out his right hand toward the temple, and made
> an oath in this manner: If ye will not deliver me Judas as a
> prisoner, I will lay this temple of God even with the ground,
> and I will break down the altar, and erect a notable temple unto
> Bacchus.
> 
> 34
> After these words he departed. Then the priests lifted up
> their hands toward heaven, and besought him that was ever a
> defender of their nation, saying in this manner;
> 
> 35
> Thou, O Lord of all things, who hast need of nothing, wast
> pleased that the temple of thine habitation should be among us:
> 
> 36
> Therefore now, O holy Lord of all holiness, keep this house
> ever undefiled, which lately was cleansed, and stop every
> unrighteous mouth.
> 
> 37
> Now was there accused unto Nicanor one Razis, one of the
> elders of Jerusalem, a lover of his countrymen, and a man of
> very good report, who for his kindness was called a father of
> the Jews.
> 
> 38
> For in the former times, when they mingled not themselves
> with the Gentiles, he had been accused of Judaism, and did
> boldly jeopard his body and life with all vehemency for the
> religion of the Jews.
> 
> 39
> So Nicanor, willing to declare the hate that he bare unto the
> Jews, sent above five hundred men of war to take him:
> 
> 40
> For he thought by taking him to do the Jews much hurt.
> 
> 41
> Now when the multitude would have taken the tower, and
> violently broken into the outer door, and bade that fire should
> be brought to burn it, he being ready to be taken on every side
> fell upon his sword;
> 
> 42
> Choosing rather to die manfully, than to come into the hands
> of the wicked, to be abused otherwise than beseemed his noble
> birth:
> 
> 43
> But missing his stroke through haste, the multitude also
> rushing within the doors, he ran boldly up to the wall, and cast
> himself down manfully among the thickest of them.
> 
> 44
> But they quickly giving back, and a space being made, he fell
> down into the midst of the void place.
> 
> 45
> Nevertheless, while there was yet breath within him, being
> inflamed with anger, he rose up; and though his blood gushed out
> like spouts of water, and his wounds were grievous, yet he ran
> through the midst of the throng; and standing upon a steep rock,
> 
> 46
> When as his blood was now quite gone, he plucked out his
> bowels, and taking them in both his hands, he cast them upon the
> throng, and calling upon the Lord of life and spirit to restore
> him those again, he thus died.
> 
> 2Mac 15
> But Nicanor, hearing that Judas and his company were in the
> strong places about Samaria, resolved without any danger to set
> upon them on the sabbath day.
> 
> 2
> Nevertheless the Jews that were compelled to go with him
> said, O destroy not so cruelly and barbarously, but give honour
> to that day, which he, that seeth all things, hath honoured with
> holiness above all other days.
> 
> 3
> Then the most ungracious wretch demanded, if there were a
> Mighty one in heaven, that had commanded the sabbath day to be
> kept.
> 
> 4
> And when they said, There is in heaven a living Lord, and
> mighty, who commanded the seventh day to be kept:
> 
> 5
> Then said the other, And I also am mighty upon earth, and I
> command to take arms, and to do the king's business. Yet he
> obtained not to have his wicked will done.
> 
> 6
> So Nicanor in exceeding pride and haughtiness determined to
> set up a publick monument of his victory over Judas and them
> that were with him.
> 
> 7
> But Maccabeus had ever sure confidence that the Lord would
> help him:
> 
> 8
> Wherefore he exhorted his people not to fear the coming of
> the heathen against them, but to remember the help which in
> former times they had received from heaven, and now to expect
> the victory and aid, which should come unto them from the
> Almighty.
> 
> 9
> And so comforting them out of the law and the prophets, and
> withal putting them in mind of the battles that they won afore,
> he made them more cheerful.
> 
> 10
> And when he had stirred up their minds, he gave them their
> charge, shewing them therewithall the falsehood of the heathen,
> and the breach of oaths.
> 
> 11
> Thus he armed every one of them, not so much with defence of
> shields and spears, as with comfortable and good words: and
> beside that, he told them a dream worthy to be believed, as if
> it had been so indeed, which did not a little rejoice them.
> 
> 12
> And this was his vision: That Onias, who had been high
> priest, a virtuous and a good man, reverend in conversation,
> gentle in condition, well spoken also, and exercised from a
> child in all points of virtue, holding up his hands prayed for
> the whole body of the Jews.
> 
> 13
> This done, in like manner there appeared a man with gray
> hairs, and exceeding glorious, who was of a wonderful and
> excellent majesty.
> 
> 14
> Then Onias answered, saying, This is a lover of the brethren,
> who prayeth much for the people, and for the holy city, to wit,
> Jeremias the prophet of God.
> 
> 15
> Whereupon Jeremias holding forth his right hand gave to Judas
> a sword of gold, and in giving it spake thus,
> 
> 16
> Take this holy sword, a gift from God, with the which thou
> shalt wound the adversaries.
> 
> 17
> Thus being well comforted by the words of Judas, which were
> very good, and able to stir them up to valour, and to encourage
> the hearts of the young men, they determined not to pitch camp,
> but courageously to set upon them, and manfully to try the
> matter by conflict, because the city and the sanctuary and the
> temple were in danger.
> 
> 18
> For the care that they took for their wives, and their
> children, their brethren, and folks, was in least account with
> them: but the greatest and principal fear was for the holy
> temple.
> 
> 19
> Also they that were in the city took not the least care,
> being troubled for the conflict abroad.
> 
> 20
> And now, when as all looked what should be the trial, and the
> enemies were already come near, and the army was set in array,
> and the beasts conveniently placed, and the horsemen set in
> wings,
> 
> 21
> Maccabeus seeing the coming of the multitude, and the divers
> preparations of armour, and the fierceness of the beasts,
> stretched out his hands toward heaven, and called upon the Lord
> that worketh wonders, knowing that victory cometh not by arms,
> but even as it seemeth good to him, he giveth it to such as are
> worthy:
> 
> 22
> Therefore in his prayer he said after this manner; O Lord,
> thou didst send thine angel in the time of Ezekias king of
> Judea, and didst slay in the host of Sennacherib an hundred
> fourscore and five thousand:
> 
> 23
> Wherefore now also, O Lord of heaven, send a good angel
> before us for a fear and dread unto them;
> 
> 24
> And through the might of thine arm let those be stricken with
> terror, that come against thy holy people to blaspheme. And he
> ended thus.
> 
> 25
> Then Nicanor and they that were with him came forward with
> trumpets and songs.
> 
> 26
> But Judas and his company encountered the enemies with
> invocation and prayer.
> 
> 27
> So that fighting with their hands, and praying unto God
> with their hearts, they slew no less than thirty
> and five thousand men: for through the appearance of God they
> were greatly cheered.
> 
> 28
> Now when the battle was done, returning again with joy, they
> knew that Nicanor lay dead in his harness.
> 
> 29
> Then they made a great shout and a noise, praising the
> Almighty in their own language.
> 
> 30
> And Judas, who was ever the chief defender of the citizens
> both in body and mind, and who continued his love toward his
> countrymen all his life, commanded to strike off Nicanor's head,
> and his hand with his shoulder, and bring them to Jerusalem.
> 
> 31
> So when he was there, and called them of his nation together,
> and set the priests before the altar, he sent for them that were
> of the tower,
> 
> 32
> And shewed them vile Nicanor's head, and the hand of that
> blasphemer, which with proud brags he had stretched out against
> the holy temple of the Almighty.
> 
> 33
> And when he had cut out the tongue of that ungodly Nicanor,
> he commanded that they should give it by pieces unto the fowls,
> and hang up the reward of his madness before the temple.
> 
> 34
> So every man praised toward the heaven the glorious Lord,
> saying, Blessed be he that hath kept his own place undefiled.
> 
> 35
> He hanged also Nicanor's head upon the tower, an evident and
> manifest sign unto all of the help of the Lord.
> 
> 36
> And they ordained all with a common decree in no case to let
> that day pass without solemnity, but to celebrate the thirtieth
> day of the twelfth month, which in the Syrian tongue is called
> Adar, the day before Mardocheus' day.
> 
> 37
> Thus went it with Nicanor: and from that time forth the
> Hebrews had the city in their power. And here will I make an
> end.
> 
> 38
> And if I have done well, and as is fitting the story, it is
> that which I desired: but if slenderly and meanly, it is that
> which I could attain unto.
> 
> 39
> For as it is hurtful to drink wine or water alone; and as
> wine mingled with water is pleasant, and delighteth the taste:
> even so speech finely framed delighteth the ears of them that
> read the story. And here shall be an end.
>
> — *Maccabees 2*